APPENDIX. 323 
quence of their very insufficient means of defence, being but 
few in number, whilst many had no other weapons than 
pitch-forks or bayonets. ‘Those who had horses were con- 
stantly on duty patrolling; that many of their horses 
were knocked up; and that these and other exertions could 
not be continued unless they received assistance. This 
dispatch concluded by stating that it had been reported to 
them that the Caffers were approaching in considerable 
numbers, and that consequently their position would be quite 
untenable, as their supply of water, allowing they could 
defend themselves in the church, might be entirely cut off. 
Under these circumstances, advice was requested as to the 
propriety of retiring on Graham’s Town with their families, 
and sending their cattle in the direction of Algoa Bay, or 
elsewhere, as might eventually be decided on. They im- 
plored a reinforcement of men, which was the more neces- 
sary, as a number of young men, under Lieut. Forbes, who 
had been sent thither as an escort with ammunition, and 
who had been extremely active, were about to return to 
their respective homes. 
The reply to this communication was of the most heart- 
rending character. It stated the utter impossibility of send- 
ing assistance; and recommended them to abandon that 
beautiful and interesting village, and thus to avail them- 
selves of the communication then open with Graham’s Town. 
This advice was followed, the whole of that part of the 
country is depopulated; the dwellings of the inhabitants 
ravaged and burnt; large herds of cattle, and beautiful 
flocks of Merino sheep abandoned, a prey to the wolves, or 
to the still more savage hordes of barbarians. Families 
who a few days before were living in peace and in comfort, 
were now cast upon the world utterly destitute, the proceeds 
of more than fourteen years’ arduous and incessant exertions 
¥y 2 
